Alpaca guides

Everything you need to know before buying Peruvian alpaca, without the marketing.

• Alpaca Fiber Grades Explained: Royal, Baby and Superfine

  What “baby alpaca”, “royal alpaca” and “superfine” actually mean, how Peru grades alpaca fiber by micron, and which grade to choose for sweaters, scarves and accessories.

• Alpaca vs. Cashmere vs. Merino Wool: Which Is Best?

  An honest comparison of alpaca, cashmere and merino wool: softness, warmth, durability, itch and price, to help you choose your next sweater.

• How to Wash and Care for Alpaca Sweaters

  Step-by-step care for alpaca sweaters, scarves and throws: hand washing, drying flat, removing pills, storing and protecting from moths.

• How to Buy Authentic Alpaca Online: Reading the Label

  What fiber content, “alpaca blend”, “baby alpaca” and “made in Peru” mean on a product page, and the details worth checking before you buy alpaca online.

• Peruvian Alpaca Brands That Ship to the US

  Every store we compare, with price ranges and shipping policies.